Before “I Do”: Why Premarital Counseling Could Be the Best Investment in Your Marriage
Marriage is one of the biggest commitments two people can make, and one of the most rewarding when it’s nurtured with care, communication, and intention. But let’s be honest: marriage takes work. That’s why premarital counseling isn’t just for couples in crisis; it’s for couples who want to start strong and stay strong.
As I write this, I’m reflecting on my own premarital counseling experience. Going through that process with my partner helped us learn things about ourselves and each other that we might not have discovered otherwise. It wasn’t about fixing problems—it was about preparing for the life we were building together. That experience inspired much of the work I do today with couples at Marryland Therapy & Consultation.
And if you live in Arkansas, there’s even more reason to take this seriously.
Arkansas Has One of the Highest Divorce Rates in the U.S.
According to the latest U.S. Census Bureau data, Arkansas consistently ranks among the states with the highest divorce rates. Around 12 out of every 1,000 people in our state get divorced, well above the national average (U.S. Census Bureau, 2022).
This isn’t meant to scare you. It’s a reality check and a call to action!
While many factors can contribute to the end of a marriage, one of the most effective ways to strengthen a relationship is to build a strong foundation before saying “I do.” That’s exactly what premarital counseling at Marryland Therapy & Consultation is designed to do.
Premarital Counseling Explained
Premarital counseling helps couples prevent issues that often lead to conflict later on. In our sessions, we talk about things like:
Communication
Handling disagreements in healthy ways
Managing finances together
Sex and intimacy
Family dynamics and boundaries
Parenting expectations
Shared values and long-term goals
Think of it like a relationship checkup. You don’t wait until something’s wrong, you go to strengthen what’s already good and prepare for challenges ahead. Premarital counseling isn’t about finding faults; it’s about building the skills that help your relationship thrive for years to come.
The Benefits Are Real (and Long-Lasting)
Many studies show that couples who complete premarital counseling are more likely to:
Experience higher marital satisfaction
Communicate more effectively
Resolve conflicts in healthy ways
Stay married longer
In a state like Arkansas, where divorce rates are high, these benefits can make all the difference. Premarital counseling at Marryland Therapy & Consultation, North Little Rock, can act as protective armor, helping couples understand each other better, manage stress, and build trust that lasts.
It’s Not Just for Religious Couples
While faith communities have long encouraged premarital counseling, it’s now common among couples from all backgrounds. At Marryland Therapy & Consultation, I offer evidence-based counseling designed around your unique relationship. Whether you’re marrying for the first time, blending families, or entering a second marriage, you’ll gain practical tools and insight tailored to your partnership.
Invest in Your Forever
A wedding might cost thousands, but investing in a few sessions of premarital counseling costs just a fraction, and the rewards can last a lifetime. Even if your ceremony is weeks away or still in the planning stages, now is the perfect time to strengthen your relationship.
Your love story deserves every chance to thrive. Start it with clarity, confidence, and commitment.
Ready to Start? Book with a Trusted Arkansas Therapist
If you’re ready to invest in your marriage, I’d be honored to guide you.
Book a session with LeCole Barnes, LCSW, at Marryland Therapy & Consultation—offering premarital counseling, marriage counseling, and couples therapy in North Little Rock and Sherwood, Arkansas. Virtual sessions are also available for your convenience.
📍 Learn more or schedule your session at www.marrylandtherapy.com
Reference:
U.S. Census Bureau. (2023, February 9). United States Marriage and Divorce Rates Declined Last 10 Years. Retrieved from https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2023/02/united-states-marriage-and-divorce-rates-declined-last-10-years.html
Healing hearts, minds, and relationships
LeCole Barnes, LCSW – Marryland Therapy & Consultation | North Little Rock, Arkansas